an issue of debate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an issue of debate" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a topic or problem that is being discussed and argued about by different individuals or groups. Example: "Global warming is an issue of debate among scientists, with some arguing that it is caused by human activity while others believe it is a natural occurrence."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

However, the optimal construct design remains an issue of debate.

The Spine Journal

Application of dispersants in shallow water remains an issue of debate within the spill response community.

Environmental Modelling & Software

The role of social support has been an issue of debate in the literature.

International Journal of Nursing Studies

"We'll make this an issue of debate and discussion," Ms. Niaz said.

The New York Times

Despite such achievements, however, she is aware that her Britishness remains an issue of debate.

The Guardian

In Katine, the impact of climate change is not an issue of debate, it's a reality.

The Guardian

Education is constantly an issue of debate, as is the relationship with Brussels.

The Guardian

The effect of intradiscal steroid therapy for patients with degenerative chronic discogenic low back pain remains an issue of debate.

The Spine Journal

The value of continuity of care in preventing 30-day readmissions after surgical procedures remains an issue of debate.

The Spine Journal

Take for example the issue of male circumcision, which periodically become an issue of debate within the human rights community.

Columbia University

Legal experts said the potential liability of Goldman for losses suffered in the Abacus investments was an issue of debate.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an issue of debate", ensure the context clearly indicates who is debating the issue and what the differing viewpoints are. Providing specific examples or summarizing the core arguments strengthens clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "an issue of debate" as a filler phrase. Replace it with more specific language that directly addresses the contested points. For instance, instead of stating "the budget is an issue of debate", specify "the allocation of funds for education is debated due to differing priorities".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an issue of debate" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a subject or topic currently under discussion and disagreement. Ludwig provides numerous examples across varied disciplines and media demonstrating its function in introducing contentious subjects.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

47%

News & Media

38%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an issue of debate" is a common and grammatically sound way to introduce a topic with differing viewpoints. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use across diverse sources, particularly in science, news media, and academic fields. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the debating parties and their respective arguments. While effective, avoid overuse and consider more specific language to pinpoint the exact points of contention. Alternatives like "a matter of contention" or "a subject of controversy" can add nuance, but "an issue of debate" remains a versatile and reliable choice for signaling ongoing discussion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a matter of contention

Replaces "issue" with "matter" and "debate" with "contention", emphasizing disagreement.

a point of discussion

Substitutes "issue" with "point" and "debate" with "discussion", softening the tone.

a subject of controversy

Uses "subject" instead of "issue" and "controversy" instead of "debate", highlighting strong disagreement.

a topic of argument

Replaces "issue" with "topic" and "debate" with "argument", suggesting a more heated disagreement.

an open question

Replaces the entire phrase with a shorter expression indicating unresolved status.

a contested topic

Uses "contested" to describe the nature of the topic, implying disagreement.

a moot point

Suggests the issue is no longer relevant or practical, often implying it's not worth debating.

a controversial matter

Emphasizes the controversial aspect of the issue.

a point at issue

Focuses on the specific point that is being debated.

a question under consideration

Implies the issue is being actively thought about and evaluated.

FAQs

How can I use "an issue of debate" in a sentence?

You can use "an issue of debate" to introduce a topic where there are differing viewpoints. For example, "Whether the government should increase taxes is "an issue of debate" among economists".

What are some alternatives to "an issue of debate"?

Alternatives include "a matter of contention", "a point of discussion", or "a subject of controversy" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it more appropriate to use "a matter of contention" instead of "an issue of debate"?

"A matter of contention" suggests a stronger level of disagreement or dispute compared to "an issue of debate". Use it when the disagreement is significant and likely to cause conflict.

What's the difference between "an issue of debate" and "a settled matter"?

"An issue of debate" indicates that a topic is still under discussion and lacks a consensus, whereas "a settled matter" means that a decision has been reached and the discussion is closed.